Early in Barack Obama’s graduation speech Thursday at the Air Force Academy, the president thanked 2016 graduate Cameron Kistler for his service in Iraq.

David Higgins, Kistler’s fellow graduate and friend, was sitting in the audience.

“Oh, that’s really cool,” Higgins said to himself. “The president said Cam’s name. That’s awesome.”

A few seconds later, Higgins heard these words from Obama:

“David Higgins, a marksman who’s going to the Olympics in Rio, bring home the gold, David!”

The words sounded like a presidential order to Higgins, who will compete for the United States Olympic shooting team in the 50-meter prone event.

“I honestly had no idea,” Higgins said. “I was not anticipating him saying my name. I was just awestruck that he mentioned me. I was very surprised.”

Obama was looking directly at the 2016 graduates as he spoke. After the president offered the mention/order, Higgins waved at the president while several of his classmates patted the Olympian on the back.

Obama noticed the wave and the commotion. He looked at Higgins and laughed.

“No pressure,” the president said, fully aware of the immense pressure that will follow Higgins to the Rio Olympics.